• Scammers pretend to be police officers, government officials, or cybercrime investigators.
• Use official-looking Skype IDs, forged legal documents, and fake video calls to gain trust.
• Threaten victims with arrest, legal trouble, or account suspension to create panic.
• Trick victims into transferring money as “security deposits” or fines.

1. Misuse of Cyber Crime Helpline Number 1930

Steps of the Fraud:

1. Fake Call from Authorities:
   • Scammers called victims, posing as law enforcement officials.
   • They claimed the victim’s personal information was misused in illegal activities, such as drug trafficking or money laundering.
2. Use of Official Helpline Number:
   • The fraudsters used the official cybercrime helpline number 1930 via Skype, making victims believe they were speaking with real authorities.
3. Fabricated Evidence & Intimidation:
   • Victims were forced into video calls with fake officers who showed them fabricated legal documents and warnings.
   • The scammers threatened immediate arrest if they did not cooperate.
4. Financial Extortion:
   • The fraudsters told victims to transfer money to “secure government accounts” to clear their name.
   • Victims, fearing legal trouble, send large sums of money.
5. Discovery & Legal Action:
   • One IT professional from Hyderabad lost ₹29.55 lakh before realizing the fraud.
   • Cybercrime authorities launched investigations into similar cases.